Backing the next generation of women in rugby league with Storm

The two-year agreement comes at a defining moment for the game, with Melbourne Storm set to launch its inaugural female teams in the Lisa Fiaola (U17) and Tarsha Gale (U19) competitions in 2026 – an important step toward its long-term ambition of securing an NRLW licence.

Building on a successful 2024 partnership to co-present the Women of Storm initiative, BMD’s continued support will help to advance the foundations of grassroots rugby league across Victoria while creating clearer, more connected pathways for young female athletes to progress to the elite level.

As part of the partnership, the BMD logo will feature on the sleeves of the Club’s Lisa Fiaola and Tarsha Gale teams across the 2026 and 2027 seasons, reinforcing our commitment to backing the next generation of female talent.

Beyond the field, the partnership will deliver a range of initiatives designed to support both athletic and personal development, including enhanced development programs, mentoring opportunities and community engagement activities. It will also help increase awareness of career opportunities for women in the construction industry.

BMD CEO Scott Power said the partnership reflects a broader commitment to addressing underrepresentation and strengthening pathways for women across both sport and industry.

“At BMD, we’re focused on building opportunities that extend beyond the projects we deliver. Women remain underrepresented in both elite sport and in industries like construction, and we know that meaningful change comes from long-term investment in pathways, visibility and support.

“We’re continuing our involvement in women’s rugby league through Melbourne Storm’s inaugural female teams, and to support the systems that help more young women participate and progress in the game.

“At the same time, we see our responsibility to create more opportunities for women within our own industry. This partnership reflects a shared commitment to building environments where women can thrive, progress and lead.

“Ultimately, it’s about standing alongside the next generation as they step into environments where they can thrive, whether that’s in sport or in industries where women are still significantly underrepresented.”

Melbourne Storm CEO Justin Rodski welcomed the partnership and said BMD’s support would play an important role in shaping the future of the Club’s female programs.

“We’re delighted to continue our relationship with BMD and to have them alongside us as we build the next chapter of women’s rugby league in Victoria.

“Their investment in our Female Pathways and Women of Storm programs will help create meaningful opportunities for young athletes, strengthen our development system and support our long-term ambition of establishing a successful NRLW future for Melbourne Storm.”

“I’d like to personally thank Scott and his team for their ongoing commitment and support of not just Melbourne Storm but female sport more broadly.”

Storm Female Pathways Manager Pauline Poloai said the partnership was a significant step forward in the Club’s investment in the women’s game.

“BMD has been a valued part of our Melbourne Storm family, and we’re pleased to build on that partnership. Their commitment to supporting women in sport aligns perfectly with our vision for growing the female game in Victoria.

“This partnership will allow us to invest more deeply in our pathways, provide meaningful opportunities for young female athletes and ensure that girls coming through our system have the resources and support available to them.

“It’s a game-changer for our program, and we’re proud to have the BMD logo on the sleeves of our Storm jersey for the 2026 and 2027 seasons.”